Oktoberfest: Everything you need to know about this beer festival

In North America, the fall season heralds cooler weather, warm colors, comfort food – and Oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest, which evokes an image of flowing pints of beer, is a festival steeped in culture, history and community.

Originating in Munich, the festival has become a global phenomenon, with events held in many countries – from Germany to the US and the Philippines.

Here’s everything you need to know about Oktoberfest.

The first Oktoberfest celebration

The festival’s origins can be traced back to Oct. 12, 1810 in Munich, Germany, when Bavaria’s crown prince, who later became King Louis I, married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen.

Celebrating their wedding, they threw a massive party, inviting the entire city of Munich to multiple days of feasting, drinking and horse races.

Their wedding party was such a hit they decided to throw another feast the following year. The feast became an annual celebration.

The evolution of Oktoberfest

While the first years of Oktoberfest saw horse races, the festival flourished into something bigger by the late 1800s, focusing more on celebrating Bavarian culture. 

In 1818, an agricultural fair was featured to boost the economy, and by the late 20th century, beer stands were replaced by large brewery-sponsored kiosks. 

Traditionally, the mayor of Munich taps the first keg to signal the festival’s opening.

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As the festival expanded, so did its appeal to families. Games, parades and carnival rides became part of the event. The annual festivities continued to thrive and evolved into a two-week spectacle.

Oktoberfest today

The beer festival has expanded its reach worldwide, with cities putting their unique twist on the celebration. Despite its name, Oktoberfest usually kicks off in mid-September and runs for 16 days until the first Sunday of October. 

From the lederhosen and dirndls worn by some attendees to parades and performances, Oktoberfest convenes elements of German history, food and fashion. Alongside the flowing beer, traditional Bavarian dishes like bratwurst, pretzels and sauerkraut are served.

@placestobe_munich 1 pm at Oktoberfest in Munich 🍻 #089 #muc #oktoberfest #münchen #oktoberfest2024 #bavaria #Ozapftis #prost ♬ original sound – Placestobe_munich

Although Oktoberfest has its roots in Bavarian tradition, its appeal has become universal.

In Southern California, Oktoberfest is celebrated this year with the Los Angeles Beer Festival, featuring over 70 local and craft breweries, live performances, carnival rides and some of LA’s best food trucks. 

Across the globe, Oktoberfest has gained a foothold in the Philippines – not a surprise as Filipinos are known for their love of festivities and community gatherings.

Beer holds a special place in Filipino culture, becoming a social drink that connects families and communities.

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In fact, a Filipino craft beer has recently been named World’s Best Beer for 2024.

Every year, one of the country’s largest beer companies spearheads Oktoberfest events with the most noteworthy festivals taking place in Cebu and Manila.

While the original beer fest runs until early October, Oktoberfest in the Philippines is celebrated throughout the month. 

Wherever you are in the world, here’s a toast to the world’s biggest beer festival. Prost!